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Key Moments in Life: Leadership 8 |
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The ruler is identified both by his costume, which is more elaborate or costly than that of other members of the court or of a type that is reserved exclusively for the use of the ruler. In addition he is surrounded by symbols of power such as umbrellas of state, staffs, swords, and a large entourage of attendants and court officials. The King (Ajalorun) of Ijebu-Ife sits in state during the annual Ifowa festival. He carries a beaded walking stick and shakes an ornate brass staff containing crotals that ring out "a-se" ("so be it") in response to blessings from the priests. The staff spoke for the King, who historically did not speak in public. Behind the King's left shoulder, a chief holds the umbrella. |
King of Ijebu-Ife, central Ijebu area, Nigeria, 1982. |
